Earth Science
Studying Earth Science
Satellites, Shuttles, and Space Stations
Study Tip
Remember Newton’s Third Law of Motion (“for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction”) in order to better understand how a rocket is thrust upward into space.
Rockets
A rocket is propelled into shape by particles flying out of one end at high speed
- Fuel is ignited in a chamber → explosion of gases → pressure that forces gases out of rocket → rocket moves in opposite direction
- Thrust: reaction force of gases which push the rocket forward
Study Tip
Remember Newton’s Third Law of Motion (“for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction”) in order to better understand how a rocket is thrust upward into space.
Satellites
- Satellite: object that orbits a larger object
- Orbit: circular or elliptical path around an object
- The moon was Earth’s first satellite, but now many human-made “artificial satellites” orbit the planet
- 4 main types of satellites:
- Imaging satellites take pictures of Earth’s surface for military or scientific purposes
- Communications satellites receive and send signals for telephone, television, and other methods of communication
- Navigational satellites are used for navigation systems (e.g. Global Positioning System)
The space shuttle Atlantis being launched into orbit by a rocket on Cape Canaveral, Florida.
- The International Space Station (largest artificial satellite) is designed for humans to live in space while conducting scientific research
Space Stations
- Modern space stations are constructed piece by piece to create a modular system
- International Space System (ISS) : primary purpose is scientific research
